Envirotex / EnvirotexLite
Envirotex Lite, often called just Envirotex, is a pour-on plastic coating that is produced by Environmental Technology, Inc. It air dries to a resilient high gloss finish in approximately eight hours at 70°F, completely curing within 36 hours and does not require a degassing chamber. This Envirotex product reaches its full strength and durable hardiness in about 36 to 48 hours after pouring. Although one coat is all that is usually required for an attractive, durable coating that is equivalent to up to 50 coats of varnish, two or more coats may be applied by simply wiping the surface with a clean cloth and alcohol prior to recoating after curing. Envirotex requires no polishing to achieve its high gloss beauty.
Though not suitable for casting, Envirotex can be used in shallow bezels like deep well rings, bottle caps, or even to coat bar or table tops. Envirotex Lite is a favorite of resin jewelry crafters for their beautiful embedded resin jewelry, resin tiles, and shiny coasters personalized with mementos, wall plaques, figurines, table tops, cabinet knobs, clocks, and bar tops. Envirotex has also found a niche with miniature gamers, model railroaders, and in Christmas village displays for realistic looking shallow water and icy ponds.
Envirotex is easy to use and does not have a strong smell, though it should be used in a well-ventilated area. It should be noted, though, that Envirotex Lite is not recommended for exterior use. To apply over polyurethane finishes, simply scuff sand and then wipe clean before coating.
Graduated cups with smooth flat walls and a flat bottom, stir sticks with a flat side and bottom for scraping the sides and bottom of the cup when mixing, and brushes are used to apply this beautiful finish. It’s best to use a container that holds 50% more than the amount you are mixing to allow adequate room for mixing. Do not mix Envirotex in a wax-coated container.
For best results apply Envirotex Lite to your project in a clean, dry, and dust-free room where the humidity is below 50%. It’s also best to coat your item at a temperature between 70 and 80°F. Higher room temperatures up to 100°F after pouring will speed up the cure rate and increase the hardness. (A small electric heater is recommended; never use a propane heater as these increase room humidity.)
On average use 4 to 6 ounces of Envirotex Lite per square foot. Envirotex should be mixed when slightly warm (70°F) for easy mixing and to inhibit bubble formation. Pour as soon as it is thoroughly mixed. Once mixed, you have approximately 25 minutes of working time at 70°F, less at warmer temperatures.
Within ten minutes of pouring, bubbles will rise to the surface and begin to break. Exhaling across the surface of your small item will help break the bubbles; a small propane torch is recommended for large items.
Envirotex is the choice of experts to give a beautiful finish to their most beloved keepsakes and artistic endeavors. Now you can give your treasured projects the beautiful glossy finish of Envirotex Lite, too.
® Envirotex Lite is a registered trademark.
